Alleged mastermind walks free as jury returns verdict after just three hours
Hernandez Govan, the man once accused of orchestrating the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph, has been found not guilty. After deliberating for only three hours, the jury rejected the prosecution’s claims that Govan was the mastermind behind the fatal 2021 shooting.
Speaking outside the courthouse following his release, Govan expressed relief and gratitude: “Thank you to the jury for getting this right and getting my life back. I knew in my heart I was innocent.” He added, “It just feels like I’ve been born again. I get a chance to restart my life and do some positive things.”
While Govan walks free, Justin Johnson, who was convicted of pulling the trigger, remains behind bars, serving a life sentence. Johnson recently filed a motion for a new trial, claiming “insufficient evidence,” which prompted a heartfelt response from Dolph’s fiancée, Mia Jaye.
“It’s infuriating,” she wrote via her Black Men Deserve To Grow Old platform. “We will keep fighting for justice and honor the memory of Adolph.”
Johnson’s motion was ultimately denied. A third suspect, Shundale Barnett, had charges dropped earlier this year due to a clerical error, with authorities confirming he had no involvement in the murder.